Introduction
Creamy mushroom sauce paired with tender gnocchi creates a delightful dish that is both rich and satisfying. This recipe highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the smooth texture of the sauce, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious meal that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 16 ounces white button or baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (plus an additional 1/4 cup as needed)
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 3 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon cold water
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Total Time
30-35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Cook the mushrooms and garlic: Melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden. Once they’re golden, add salt to draw out some of the water. Cook the mushrooms down so some of the water can evaporate. Add garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Make your sauce: Add broth, cream, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken. (This is a good time to boil your gnocchi if you haven’t already.)
3. Add your gnocchi: Remove thyme sprigs from the sauce; add Parmesan and stir to melt it in. Add your cooked gnocchi and gently stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper; add additional broth if needed to keep the sauce nice and silky.
4. You’re done! Scoop hot, steamy, saucy gnocchi into bowls, top with Parmesan, salt, and pepper, and enjoy.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the mushrooms and garlic
Melt the butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté them until they turn golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they are golden, sprinkle in the salt to help draw out some of the moisture from the mushrooms. Continue to cook the mushrooms until some of the water has evaporated, which will enhance their flavor. After that, add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
Make your sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and add the fresh thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. During this time, if you have not done so already, boil your gnocchi according to the package directions. Once simmering, add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and stir well to thicken it.
Add your gnocchi
Remove the thyme sprigs from the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing well until it melts into the sauce. Gently add your cooked gnocchi into the skillet and stir to combine everything, being careful not to break apart the gnocchi. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add the reserved chicken broth, a little at a time, until the desired silky consistency is achieved.
You’re done!
Scoop the hot, creamy gnocchi into serving bowls. Top with extra Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful dish!
Notes
Cooking Tips
Use a large skillet to ensure the mushrooms can brown evenly. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as that can cause the mushrooms to steam instead of sauté.
Thickening the Sauce
If the sauce is not thickening as you like, you can let it simmer longer without the lid or add a little more cornstarch slurry until you reach your preferred consistency.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Suggested Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition, or substitute the gnocchi with pasta of your choice if desired.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Use medium heat to melt the butter without browning it, allowing for a smooth base for cooking.
Sautéing Mushrooms
Cook mushrooms until they are golden, ensuring to give enough time for water to evaporate for enhanced flavor.
Seasoning with Salt
Add salt during cooking to help draw out moisture from the mushrooms, intensifying their natural flavor.
Slicing Garlic
Thinly slice garlic to maximize its flavor and ensure even cooking while sautéing.
Simmering for Flavor
Bring the mixture of broth, cream, and thyme to a simmer to meld the flavors effectively over a few minutes.
Using Cornstarch Slurry
Dissolve cornstarch in cold water before adding to the sauce to achieve a smooth thickening without lumps.
Removing Thyme Sprigs
After simmering, remove thyme sprigs to avoid overpowering the dish with strong herb flavor while still keeping the essence.
Combining Ingredients
Gently stir cooked gnocchi into the sauce to maintain their integrity and evenly coat them with the creamy sauce.
Adjusting Consistency
Use additional broth as needed to keep the sauce smooth and silky, ensuring the dish is not too thick or dry.
FAQ
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use varieties like cremini or shiitake for different flavor profiles.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You may use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option, though it may alter the sauce’s richness.
How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?
Gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface, usually in 2-3 minutes in boiling water.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before combining with gnocchi.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.
Conclusion
The creamy mushroom sauce combined with tender gnocchi creates a delightful dish that is both comforting and rich in flavor. The balance of earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and creamy texture, highlighted by the nutty taste of Parmesan, makes this recipe a perfect meal for any occasion. It’s simple yet sophisticated, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi
Combine ricotta and fresh spinach into your gnocchi for added flavor and nutrition. Serve with brown butter and sage for a delightful twist.
Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Toss gnocchi with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella for a vibrant, summery dish. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a perfect finish.
Gnocchi with Pesto
Mix cooked gnocchi with homemade or store-bought pesto for a quick and flavorful meal. Add roasted cherry tomatoes and pine nuts for extra texture and taste.
Buffalo Chicken Gnocchi
Incorporate shredded buffalo chicken into your gnocchi dish and creamy ranch dressing for a spicy kick. Top with green onions for added freshness.
Vegetable Gnocchi Skillet
Sauté seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus with the gnocchi in olive oil and garlic, finishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a light yet satisfying meal.
Gnocchi in Lemon Alfredo Sauce
Create a tangy Alfredo sauce with lemon zest and juice, then combine with gnocchi for a bright and creamy pasta dish. Garnish with parsley for a pop of color.
